Motorbike Legal Tyre Limit

A common question from motorcyclists is: “After how many kilometers does the tire of a motorcycle have to brake?” The answer varies depending on make, model and condition. With motorcycles, it is important to remember that the weight distribution is not 50%. Although it is more difficult to push balsa wood forward than lead, the front wheel is not always in contact with the ground. So if the front wheel doesn`t support weight, the rear wheel doesn`t brake the bike either. Most of the time, you can tell by looking at your tires that they are a little broken. However, if you`re not sure, more sophisticated measurement tools are at your disposal. However, the development of tyres has developed at a fantastic pace and today they are safer and more grippy than ever. But once they`re mounted on your bike, the responsibility for their continued safety rests with you, the user – and it`s your duty to make sure your bike`s tires remain safe and legal. The age of your motorcycle tires is a critical factor in deciding when to replace them. A good rule of thumb is to replace them every 5-6 years. Check the sidewall of the tire for more information. It will likely include a DOT acronym and a series of numbers.

You should also take the time to run them every year. Tires older than 5 years should not be used. If a tire indicates that it is a “tube-type”, it does not have a tubeless racing hoof, so it does not retain air and must therefore be equipped with an inner tube. Motorcyclists are strongly advised to be aware of the visual condition of their tires, such as: Tread depth, cracks, cuts or rubber bulges of the tread or sidewalls, foreign objects and dynamic performance or behavior changes such as air loss, noise or vibration. Driving on potholes, curbs and speed thresholds, even at low speeds, can lead to tire structure weakening or breakage. Drivers who experience impact during operation must ensure immediate inspection by a tyre professional. Knots and dents may indicate internal damage and should be inspected immediately by a tire specialist. Positive and negative pressure are the main causes of unnecessary and uneven tire wear. Below 50cc, all grooves of the original tread should be visible – if the grooves have worn smoothly, your tire should be changed.

In this photo we have a 180/55 ZR17 (73W) tire, which means that it is 180 mm wide and the tread height is 55%, or 99 mm. The 17 refers to the size of the rim – 17 inches – while the 71W is the speed and load capacity; 365kg and 168mph (270kmh). Since this rating is given in parentheses, it means that the tire can reach speeds above the value, but if there were no hooks, it would mean that the rating would be the maximum value. The “M/C” simply means that the tire is intended for use on a motorcycle. You can also see the direction of rotation – if it`s the wrong way, your bike will fail at its MoT. Driving, which most commuters and occasional drivers do, means that steps closer to the tire wall wear out more slowly than those in the middle. Once you`ve been driving for a few years, you`ll know how long you can expect a tire with your schedule. The other notable tire is the “Bias-Belted” – effectively a Crossply with straps under the tread for extra support and suitable for use up to 150 miles per hour. These tyres have a “B” in their designation; in the photo below, you can see one on the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sport Glide. To determine the correct tire pressure, you need to check the tires cold. This is important because tires are more accurate in cold weather. For your safety, you can use a tire pressure gauge, available at gas stations or at home, or buy one at a motorcycle parts store.

A tire pressure gauge measures the amount of pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI) and must be adjusted based on the vehicle`s load and recommended tire pressure range. Underfilled tires are one of the leading causes of car accidents. By checking your motorcycle`s tires once a month, you`ll save money and maybe your life, so it`s worth taking the time to do it. It`s far too easy to take your tires for granted. After all, premium tire manufacturers such as Bridgestone, Dunlop, Michelin and Co. are continuously developing and improving their design to deliver unmatched performance. How often should you check your tire pressure? It`s best to check your tire pressure before each trip. Check your tire pressure when the rubber is cold to get the most accurate readings. The break-in time allows the tire to settle on the rim, serves as “abrasion” of the tread and allows the rider to adapt to the feel and handling of the new tires. After installation, make sure that the tread is not contaminated in any way.

Clean the appropriate lubricant, polish the tread circumference with a dry cloth and make sure the label is removed. Whenever new tires are fitted, the motorcycle must be driven carefully and the tires must not be exposed to maximum power or speed for the first 100 miles.